From the Research
The recommended treatment for acceleration/deceleration injuries involves a multimodal approach, focusing on rest, activity modification, pain management, and physical therapy, with the most recent and highest quality study 1 suggesting that the current standard of care, including protection, rest, ice, compression, and elevation, remains the most effective treatment.
Initial Management
Initial management should focus on rest and activity modification to prevent further injury, followed by a gradual return to normal activities as symptoms improve.
- Rest and activity modification are crucial in the initial phase to prevent further injury.
- A gradual return to normal activities as symptoms improve is essential for optimal recovery.
Pain Management
Pain management often includes over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen (500-1000mg every 6 hours, not exceeding 4000mg daily) or NSAIDs like ibuprofen (400-600mg every 6-8 hours with food) for 5-7 days to reduce pain and inflammation, as supported by studies 2, 3.
- Acetaminophen and NSAIDs are commonly used for pain management in acceleration/deceleration injuries.
- The dosage and duration of these medications should be carefully considered to minimize side effects.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is crucial and should begin after the acute phase, typically within 1-2 weeks, focusing on gentle range of motion exercises, followed by strengthening and proprioception training, as demonstrated in a study 4.
- Physical therapy plays a vital role in the recovery process, improving range of motion, strength, and proprioception.
- The timing and content of physical therapy should be tailored to the individual's needs and progress.
Additional Therapies
Application of ice for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours during the first 48-72 hours helps reduce inflammation, while heat therapy may be beneficial after this initial period, as suggested by studies 2, 5.
- Ice and heat therapy can be useful adjuncts to the treatment of acceleration/deceleration injuries.
- The timing and duration of these therapies should be carefully considered to maximize their benefits.
Severe Cases
For severe cases or those not responding to conservative treatment within 4-6 weeks, further evaluation with imaging studies and specialist consultation may be necessary, as indicated by the lack of strong evidence for alternative therapies like deep oscillation therapy 1.
- Severe cases or those with persistent symptoms may require further evaluation and specialist consultation.
- Imaging studies and specialist consultation can help identify underlying conditions that may be contributing to the persistence of symptoms.